STEPANAKERT, NKR—Sometimes, there is no better way to understand and appreciate your surroundings than by looking at it through a different lens. That’s exactly what the students at TUMO Stepanakert did during the photography learning lab held in partnership with the HALO Trust.

The group of 16 students journeyed throughout Karabagh to capture scenes of life around them.

The TUMO Center for Creative Technologies worked with the HALO Trust to create a lab that taught students how to develop their photography skills and highlight the HALO Trust’s work in demining and clearing explosives from the region. The photos taken by the students during this lab will be showcased in a HALO Trust exhibition in the United States.

World-renowned photo journalist Scout Tufankjian travelled to the Nagorno-Karabagh Republic (Artsakh/NKR) to lead the lab. This was her second time teaching at TUMO and her first at TUMO Stepanakert; the focus of this lab was on documentary photography.

The group of 16 students journeyed throughout Karabagh to capture scenes of life around them. They photographed subjects of their own choosing and developed their own photo-stories.

The students photographed subjects of their own choosing and developed their own photo-stories.

Tufankjian commented, “I always learn so much from the students; they work so hard and think about things really deeply. Each student focused on something different and each brought a totally fascinating subject into the light. They produced really, really fabulous work.”

Tufankjian’s excitement for the lab was shared by her students. Samvel Sargsyan, 14, noted, “We’d look at Scout’s photos and apply what we saw to our own photos. In this way, we learned to see the beauty in everything.”

The work the students’ produced at TUMO Stepanakert reflected their hard work and determination in learning everything they could about documentary photography. But there is much more to come in the future for these teens. TUMO CEO Marie Lou Papazian notes, “We were very excited to partner with the HALO Trust because we expected excellent results and we were not disappointed. Though the TUMO Stepanakert center is the newest TUMO location and is less than a year old, the students are motivated and eager to learn as much as they can, and this learning lab with Scout Tufankjian and the HALO Trust only further proved it.”

The HALO Trust program manager, Yuri Shahramyan, commented, “One-third of the landmine casualties in Nagorno-Karabagh are children, so this lab was an excellent opportunity to educate TUMO students about the risks, while also explaining what HALO is doing to help make Karabagh safe. Their work does a great job of bringing our work to life, and we are looking forward to featuring it in our campaign to raise and match funds so we can make Karabagh mine free.”

The HALO Trust is a global humanitarian mine-clearance NGO that has been working to clear landmines, cluster munitions, and other explosives in Karabagh since 2000. It has cleared 86 percent of the minefields and is now raising funds to finish the work. An extremely generous anonymous donor has pledged to match the funds raised for the clearance of mines in Karabagh. For more information, visit www.halotrust.org/nagornokarabakh.

The work the students’ produced at TUMO Stepanakert reflected their hard work and determination in learning everything they could about documentary photography.

The TUMO Center for Creative Technologies is a free of charge, after-school learning center that gives students the opportunity to learn the latest in arts and technology. There are currently four centers opened in Armenia and the Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh. The Stepanakert location was opened in 2015 through the TUMOxAGBU partnership.

LOS ANGELES—Author and artist Taleen Keldjian has written and illustrated her first book, Fútbol!: A Fun Doodle Book on All Things Fútbol, published by Banian Labs’ Blue Wonder Books, in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Author and artist Taleen Keldjian has written and illustrated her first book, Fútbol!: A Fun Doodle Book on All Things Fútbol.

An educational “doodle” book for kids ages 4-9, Fútbol! engages kids with the basics of Fútbol (soccer) and its international appeal. Despite its Spanish title, the 27-page hardcover book is written in English. Fútbol! touches on everything from uniforms and game rules to how fans celebrate and cheer the game, enabling kids to color, doodle, and solve puzzles along the way.

Fútbol! also pays tribute to those widely considered to be two of the finest female and male Fútbol players in the world, Alex Morgan (United States) and Lionel Messi (Argentina).

By emphasizing how Fútbol is for both girls and boys, and for all countries and cultures, Keldjian’s book unifies all those who love and play the sport, including those who perhaps are just exploring it for the first time. Her exuberant illustrations show both the joy of playing and following Fútbol, as well as the respect owed to the world’s most popular sport.

“My publisher asked if I could write and illustrate a doodle book especially for multiracial and multicultural children. There are not too many resources available for those kids in the market today. The subject was free reign, which is quite rare for a young writer/illustrator to be presented with early in their career,” said Keldjian. “Illustrating sports subjects had always excited me, and I had been wanting to work on a professional sports-themed project for a while. I thought to myself, what better subject to appeal to most kids than sports—and the sport which most unites the world today?”

The cover of Fútbol!

Having already made appearances at the Bay Area Kids Book Festival and other signing events, Keldjian is making inroads to new generations of readers with her work. “The sport of fútbol unites us all no matter our background,” said Keldjian. “Every nation in the world comes together to participate, pause for the love of the game, and learn unique cultural traditions from each other.”

She also encourages students to try their own hand at writing and illustrating. “When I visit schools, the message I like to share with kids is if you like writing, then keep writing. If you like drawing, then keep drawing. Start out by writing and/or drawing your favorite things and create stories out of it. Practice by writing several drafts and draw layers of sketches. You will get better and one day as a career, creating your own book will become possible. Let your imagination wander and most importantly, just have fun!”

Taleen Keldjian is a Los Angeles-based artist and illustrator. She earned her bachelor of fine arts degree with honors in illustration from Art Center College of Design, with awards from The Society of Illustrators in New York and Creative Quarterly 37. She has illustrated for GOOD Magazine, NAUTILUS Magazine, and CALTECH CONNECT. She gravitates towards playful, poetic, and kid-friendly illustration subjects, painting in gouache and acrylic ink. Fútbol! is Keldjian’s doodle book debut and can be found on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/099743970X.

More examples of her illustration work can be found on her website, www.taleenkeldjian.com, and her blog, http://artzytalo.tumblr.com/.

Fútbol! touches on everything from uniforms and game rules to how fans celebrate and cheer the game, enabling kids to color, doodle, and solve puzzles along the way.

NEW YORK—The Pashalian Hall at St. Illuminator Cathedral was filled with the faithful of the New York metropolitan area on June 27, to honor writer Peter Balakian, the winner of the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry.

Peter Balakian addressing the crowd

The evening’s program was guided by the master of ceremonies, Dr. Herand Markarian, who first spoke about the significance and importance of the Pulitzer and the great joy felt by Armenians worldwide when the winners were announced.

Prof. Khachig Tololyan presented Balakian and his work with a cogent and challenging analysis that whetted the appetite for more knowledge of poetry and especially the work of this poet.

Master of ceremonies, Herand Markarian addressing the crowd

Before reading excerpts from his “Ozone Journal” that was honored with the Pulitzer, Balakian thanked Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan for the remarkable evening and expressed his appreciation to all of the attendees.

Archbishop Oshagan closed the evening by thanking Markarian, Tololyan, and Balakian. His Eminence noted that as he was listening to the poetry readings he felt the Armenian spirit in every verse, even though the words were in English.

Khachig Tololyan presenting Balakian and his work

The remarkable evening ended with a reception that offered the opportunity for the attendees to meet and congratulate Balakian.

Below is a video from the event.

DILIJAN, Armenia—On July 4, Teach For Armenia (TFA) together with Scholae Mundi Armenia Foundation (SMA) and Initiatives for Development of Armenia Foundation (IDeA) held Teach For Armenia’s 2016 Fellowship Fellow Inauguration Ceremony at the campus of UWC Dilijan College. Armenian Minister of Education and Science, Levon Mkrtchyan, representatives of Teach For Armenia’s partner schools, regional governors, and educational experts took part in the event.

The 33 Fellows will join the 2015 cohort who began teaching last year at schools in Lori, Tavush, Armavir, and Gegharkunik regions across Armenia. This year’s Fellows will also teach at schools in the Aragatsotn region.

Thirty-three highly-qualified young specialists—Fellows—selected by Teach For Armenia, will begin their teaching assignments at schools across Armenia’s regions during the upcoming academic year. Teach For Armenia currently cooperates with 40 schools in 5 regions across Armenia.

The 33 Fellows will join the 2015 cohort who began teaching last year at schools in Lori, Tavush, Armavir, and Gegharkunik regions across Armenia. This year’s Fellows will also teach at schools in the Aragatsotn region.

Co-founder of the Scholae Mundi Armenia Charity Foundation, IDeA Foundation, UWC Dilijan College and Chair of the TFA Board of Trustees Veronika Zonabend and CEO and Founder of Teach For Armenia Larisa Hovannisian shared their words of encouragement with the Fellows.

“Each of you has assumed a great responsibility, and we are more than sure that you will successfully complete your mission. Remember that you have a unique opportunity to contribute towards the development of Armenia’s future generations. It is your responsibility not only to lead your students to greater academic heights, but to also unlock every child’s full potential,” said Hovannisian after the official inauguration of the Teach For Armenia 2016 Fellowship.

In 2016, Teach For Armenia and Scholae Mundi Armenia joined forces to ensure accessible and equitable education for every child in Armenia. Scholae Mundi Armenia’s mission is to promote the most advanced educational practices, which in the long run will become catalysts for social change in Armenia. Scholae Mundi Armenia Foundation currently sponsors other educational projects in Armenia, the largest of which is UWC Dilijan, which welcomed Teach For Armenia’s 2016 Fellows.

“Education is built on trust, and today we see an example of this trust: the trust of the ministry in this new initiative which has come to Armenia, the trust of young people who have agreed to devote two years of their lives to children, working in schools, in places where it is not easy to live and work, and the trust of the regional governors and school principals who agreed to take in a completely new set of people, which is unusual for schools. And I hope that in 2-3 years we will see that this trust is justified. Teach For Armenia, as part of the extensive international network Teach For All, brings to Armenia advanced ideas in the field of education, relevant in the modern world”, said Zonabend.

She also underlined that the Teach For Armenia programs could not be realized without private donors’ support. “Grants and the TFA summer school 2016 were organized with financial assistance,” Zonabend added.

Armenia’s Minister of Education and Science Levon Mkrtchyan congratulated the participants and organizers with the launch of the 2016 TFA grant program.

“I am proud that we have young people who see their duty in educating children in regional schools of Armenia. Through dedicating your time and effort to help schools that are experiencing an acute shortage of teachers, you show your commitment to serving the people for whom education has always been a priority, ” added the Minister.

Teach For Armenia’s recruitment efforts are made both locally (from Yerevan and regions) and the Armenian diaspora. Teach For Armenia seeks versatile and passionate individuals with the academic, leadership, and interpersonal expertise necessary to be transformational teachers in Armenia’s most underserved schools. Teach For Armenia’s Recruitment and Selection team, with the ongoing expert support of its global partner Teach For All, has uniquely designed a rigorous admissions process that can identify applicants who possess the characteristics that will make them successful in the Fellowship, and ultimately, as teachers in classrooms across Armenia.

Before leaving for their designated regions, the Fellows will participate in Teach For Armenia’s intensive training program called Summer Institute, which thoroughly prepares them for their two-year teaching commitment. In addition to sharing their knowledge, skills and values with their students and colleagues, Fellows will also become active members of their respective communities.

About Teach For Armenia

Teach For Armenia’s mission is to improve educational outcomes for all children in Armenia by recruiting and training exceptional individuals to teach in underserved schools for a minimum of two years. The organization is officially partnered with Teach For All, a network of independent, locally led partner organizations in more than 40 countries worldwide, who share common approaches and values in improving educational opportunities for children in their respective countries.

The Teach For Armenia Fellowship is a highly selective program. The organization selects an average of ten percent of total applicants, ensuring that those who join the two-year program have a complete set of necessary skills and mindsets to unlock the full potential of each student they serve.

Apart from its short-term goal of achieving academic progress in classrooms today, in the long-term, Teach For Armenia aims to have a systemic impact on Armenia’s education system through its alumni network—a movement of passionate leaders, who, informed by their experiences teaching as Fellows in high-need classrooms, will work throughout their lives to ensure that every child in Armenia, regardless of their socio-economic circumstances has access to an excellent education. For more information, please visit the Teach For Armenia website: http://teachforarmenia.org.

About Scholae Mundi Armenia

“Scholae Mundi Armenia” (SMA) is a charity foundation established by entrepreneurs and philanthropists Ruben Vardanyan and Veronika Zonabend. Scholae Mundi Armenia together with Scholae Mundi Russia and Scholae Mundi UK comprise an international platform aimed at promoting the most advanced educational practices, which in the long run will become catalysts for social change in the world.

SMA sees education as a major force for boosting the development of Dilijan and Armenia. SMA’s approach is to bring the most capable and motivated people and organizations involved in education together with the students and teachers, across a variety of educational platforms. SMA nurtures, supports and unites projects like UWC Dilijan College, UWC National Committee of Armenia, Teach for Armenia and the Just Dilijan It! summer program, as well as sponsoring several scholarship programs providing Armenian children with world-class educational opportunities.

SMA Board of Trustees includes heads of major educational institutions actively working in Dilijan: UWC Dilijan College, TUMO, AUA, AYB, Research Centre of the Central Bank of Armenia, as well as the representatives of the local educational community. For more information please visit the Scholae Mundi website: http://en.scholaemundi.org.

YEREVAN—In tandem with its construction of the Vardenis-Martakert Highway, the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund is implementing various development projects in communities along the route. Getavan, located at a crossroads in Artsakh’s (Nagorno-Karabagh Republic/NKR) Martakert region, is one such community. Here the fund is building a multifunctional community center, through the joint financial support of its French affiliate and the government of NKR.

Getavan is located at a crossroads in Artsakh’s Martakert region.

When completed, the two-story community center will house the mayor’s office, a library, a game room, and a 150-seat event hall. The facility will not only serve Getavan and neighboring communities, but welcome travelers who wish to visit its library and game room.

When completed, the two-story community center will house the mayor’s office, a library, a game room, and a 150-seat event hall.

Thanks to the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund, today the close-to-400 residents of Getavan also have regular access to water. According to Ararat Zakaryan, Getavan’s mayor, the community is getting younger. “Our population is growing,” Zakaryan says. “We’ve already had seven births in 2016, and are expecting another seven by the end of the year. As importantly, we’re confident that the opening of the Vardenis-Martakert Highway will be a boon to our village.”

The facility will not only serve Getavan and neighboring communities, but welcome travelers who wish to visit its library and game room.

The Hayastan All-Armenian Fund is also currently building a similar community center in the village of Kochoghot, located two kilometers from the Vardenis-Martakert Highway, with the support of French-Armenian compatriots. The facility is rising adjacent to the community school, whose construction 10 years ago was sponsored by the French-Armenian community. To date, the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund’s French affiliate has sponsored the construction of 9 community centers in Artsakh, helping improve the lives of more than 5,000 residents.

Another major project being implemented by the fund is the construction of private homes for large families in the villages of Vank, Charektar, and Chapar, all of which are located along the Vardenis-Martakert Highway.

By Movses Ter-Oganesyan

The following is a response to Robert Fisk’s article, “Echoes of Stalinism Abound in the Very Modern Azerbaijan-Armenia Conflict,” published in The Independent on Sat., April 9.

Robert Fisk (Photo: Wendy Marijnissen)

Through his decades of work, Robert Fisk has been a trumpeting voice for the international recognition of the Armenian Genocide or, as he puts it, the Armenian Holocaust.¹ Fisk’s wording amply draws connections to the Jewish and Armenian experiences of the 21^st century—both groups losing significant portions of their population to genocide. He has often said Hitler was among the first people to recognize the Armenian Genocide, when before invading Poland he proclaimed, “Who, after all, speaks today of the annihilation of the Armenians?”²

Because of Fisk’s objective writing about the Armenian Genocide in the past—often earning him vicious attacks from Turkish groups and individuals³—I questioned how he could embolden those same genocide deniers with his recent one-sided article about the unprecedented flare up between the Nagorno-Karabagh Republic (Artsakh/NKR) and Azerbaijan.⁴

Although titled, “Echoes of Stalinism Abound in the Very Modern Azerbaijan-Armenia Conflict,” Fisk does not explain how Stalin, acting as minister of nationalities in the 1920’s, in an attempt to appease Turkish leader Kemal Ataturk, transferred from Armenian to Azeri control the mountainous region of Karabagh (along with other significant portions of the First Republic of Armenia).⁵

During the “Four Day War” in early April 2016, news stations had indeed shown clips of Stalin completely irrelevant to this conflict. However, Fisk never explains Stalin’s relevance. He fails to clarify that isolating ethnic groups and redrawing state borders was a tactic mastered by Stalin to maintain authoritarian control by exploiting ethnic divide. As Sener Akturk wrote, “Ethnic engineering and discrimination were an important part of the Soviet state’s repertoire in controlling society, including the elites of the Union Republics.” Stalin artificially placed the Armenian majority population of Karabagh under Azeri control to create constant tension, making it easier to rule both groups. Indeed, the Karabagh conflict is abound by echoes of the notorious Soviet dictator. Fisk glosses over Stalin’s key role in the Karabagh conflict, and for reasons unexplained, focuses his energies on demonizing Armenian nationalism.

Fisk says he didn’t see Armenian government troops in Stepanakert—Karabagh’s capital. Instead, he claims he saw Armenian militia groups terrorizing Azeri villagers. He compares these militia groups to Turkish Ottoman forces who murdered and ethnically cleansed the Armenians during the genocide.

How can an esteemed writer like Fisk focus on barely-organized Armenian militias and not mention the state-sponsored terrorism by the special forces of the Soviet Union and Azerbaijan? With the wounds of the Armenian Genocide still festering, Armenians cannot simply forget the government-sanctioned deportation and slaughter of its people barely 25 years ago. Ignoring these facts may be convenient for Turkey and Azerbaijan, but it is shameful for western journalists.

The Republic of Armenia has consistently maintained that while it heavily supported the Armenians of Karabagh, the fighting was between the self-declared Nagorno-Karabagh Republic and the Azeri military. That explains why Fisk never saw Armenian government forces in the capital of Nagorno-Karabagh. Volunteers from Armenia did fight in the Karabagh War, but in mentioning that, one must also mention the volunteers from Turkey, the mercenaries from Chechnya, as well as the mujahedeen all fighting on the Azeri side. Was Armenia at war with Turkey, Chechnya, and Islamic extremists?

While drawing erroneous connections between the ethnic cleansing of Armenians during the genocide to the behavior of Armenian militia groups, Fisk never mentions that the regional Nagorno-Karabagh government held a referendum in February 1988 with an overwhelming vote in favor of joining Armenia. He also does not mention that the Azeri response to this decision was the real ethnic cleansing—in the form of brutal pogroms—against the Armenians in Sumgait, Kirovabad, and Baku, ultimately fueling the exodus of Armenians out of Azerbaijan and resulting in 400,000 Armenian refugees.⁶ At the start of the hostilities, the Azeris living in Armenia left unharmed, and were not butchered in the streets as were the Armenians.

As disturbing as these facts are, Fisk also leaves out one of the most insidious and overlooked triggers that instigated full-scale war: Operation Ring. Described by Thomas De Waal as the Soviet Union’s only civil war, the purpose of Operation Ring was the deportation of the civilian Armenian population in and around NKR. In an attempt to keep the oil-rich nation of Azerbaijan in the Soviet Union, under the guise of a “passport checking operation,” Soviet spetsnaz joined the Azeri Special Purpose Mobility Unit (OMON) forces in rounding up Armenian villagers and deporting them to Armenia proper.

As David Murphy writes, “[A] visit by a delegation of international human rights activists to NKAO [Nagorno-Karabagh Autonomous Oblast] recognized that both sides were guilty of violence, but the group’s report made clear that the Armenians were the principal victims of what can only be described as state-sponsored terrorism.”⁷ The report stressed the Azeri OMON unit’s abuse of the civilian population. Eight hundred and 16 people were killed and over 5,000 wounded during the 1991 operation. Conservative estimates of Armenians deported range from 5,000-7,000. Who knows how many more Armenians would have been killed without the protective presence of the Armenian militias? How can an esteemed writer like Fisk focus on barely-organized Armenian militias and not mention the state-sponsored terrorism by the special forces of the Soviet Union and Azerbaijan?

With the wounds of the Armenian Genocide still festering, Armenians cannot simply forget the government-sanctioned deportation and slaughter of its people barely 25 years ago. Ignoring these facts may be convenient for Turkey and Azerbaijan, but it is shameful for western journalists. Dismissing the Armenian position as nationalism does not give an accurate portrayal of the events that happened 25 years ago. It does nothing towards building “a parliament of man” in the Caucasus; to the contrary, it only encourages the beating of the war drum from the oil-rich dictatorship of Azerbaijan.

Movses Ter-Oganesyan is a political activist who has worked on a number of political campaigns. His interest in the Caucasus led him to study geopolitics. He is a graduate of California State University Northridge.

Notes

1 See http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/comment/armenian-genocide-to-continue-to-deny-the-truth-of-this-mass-human-cruelty-is-close-to-a-criminal-10188119.html
2 See http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/commentators/fisk/robert-fisk-the-forgotten-holocaust-463306.html
3 See http://armenians-1915.blogspot.com/2005/07/230-robert-fisk-pathological-liar-is.html and http://angelsof1915.blogspot.com/2011/06/bahrain-independent-i-smell-fisk.html
4 See http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/echoes-of-stalinism-abound-in-the-very-modern-azerbaijan-armenia-conflict-a6976421.html
5 Cornell, Svante. Small Nations & Great Powers: A Study of Ethnopolitical Conflict in the Caucasus
6 See https://www.hrw.org/reports/pdfs/u/ussr/ussr915.pdf
7 Murphy, David E. “‘Operation Ring’: The Black Berets in Azerbaijan,” The Journal of Soviet Military Studies, Vol. 5, No. 1, March 1992. p. 82.

DEARBORN, Mich.—Led by Detroit’s five Armenian Relief Society (ARS) chapters—“Maro,” “Shakeh,” “Sybille,” “Tsolig,” and “Zabelle”—a benefit concert for Artsakh (Karabagh) relief was held on June 11, under a tent on the grounds of the Armenian Community Center of Dearborn.

ARS members with Lernik Hovhannisyan

The concert was attended by 450 supporters who donated generously in a spirit of moral obligation to defend Artsakh and its military and civilian population, and to provide assistance to the families that recently suffered casualties by an aggressive and unprovoked Azerbaijan.

Additional contributions from a spaghetti dinner sponsored by the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) Detroit “Kopernik Tandourjian” Chapter and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Detroit “Azadamard” Gomideh’s annual May 28 Independence Day celebration rounded out the $40,000 total contribution from the Detroit community.

Benefit concert volunteer musicians Kristapor Arabian, Greg Hosharian, Ara Topouzian, Tom Kazarian, Shahin Krikorian, Hrant Gulian, Sam Alajajian, Jiro Tavitian, Shant Massoyan, and Shahe Sekayan sang through the night and inspired those attending to dig deep for the good cause.

ARS “Tsolig” Chapter representative Ani Attar welcomed those present and outlined the ARS’s relief efforts to help Artsakh in its time of need, in addition to the ARS’s long-standing social and educational programs throughout the country. She was joined by the event co-sponsor, ARF Detroit “Azadamard” Gomideh Chair Raffi Ourlian, who congratulated the ARS for its hard work to ensure a successful event and support for our brothers and sisters in Artsakh.

The event’s guest speaker was Lernik Hovhannesian, who was touring the Eastern United States. A member of Artsakh’s Parliament from the ARF faction, Hovhannesian provided an update on Artsakh’s current events.

Funds were raised by admission fees, dinner and drink sales, and the raffle of a package for two flight tickets to Armenia. The prize was won by Toros Chopjian, who generously purchased many tickets.

Benefit concert volunteer musicians Kristapor Arabian, Greg Hosharian, Ara Topouzian, Tom Kazarian, Shahin Krikorian, Hrant Gulian, Sam Alajajian, Jiro Tavitian, Shant Massoyan, and Shahe Sekayan sang through the night and inspired those attending to dig deep for the good cause.

The benefit concert was co-sponsored by the St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, Armenian Congregational Church, St. Vartan Armenian Catholic Church, ARF Detroit “Azadamard” Gomideh, Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society, AYF-YOARF, Homenetmen General Athletic Union and Scouts, Armenian National Committee (ANC) of Michigan, and the Armenian Community Center.

Those wishing to contribute to the ARS’s Artsakh Relief program are urged to donate through the ARS Eastern USA’s webpage at http://www.arseastus.org/ or by calling the ARS Eastern USA office at (617) 926-3801.

Looks Forward to Increased Bipartisan Cooperation and Continued Growth of Caucus Membership

WASHINGTON–The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) welcomed Representatives Jackie Speier (D-Calif.) and David Valadao (R-Calif.) as new Co-Chairs of the Congressional Armenian Caucus–bipartisan additions who will serve alongside current Co-Chairs, Congressmen Frank Pallone (D-N.J.) and Robert Dold (R-Ill.) – as well as the addition of Representatives Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and David Trott (R-Mich.) as Vice-Chairs of the Caucus.

“We welcome this bipartisan expansion of both the scope and depth of the Armenian Caucus leadership,” said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. “We thank Congressmen Dold and Pallone for their continued leadership and look forward to working with new Co-Chairs Reps. Speier and Valadao and Vice-Chairs Reps. Schiff and Trott to support the work of the Caucus in advancing legislation and other policy priorities of special concern to American friends of the Armenian nation.”

Representatives Pallone and Dold announced the expansion of the Armenian Caucus leadership in a news item earlier today.

The broader Caucus leadership team brings together a powerhouse of Congressional advocates for Armenian American concerns. San Francisco-Bay Area Congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-Calif.), who is one of two U.S. House members of Armenian descent, has been outspoken on Congressional reaffirmation of the Armenian Genocide and expanded U.S. assistance to Armenia and Artsakh. Central Valley Congressman David Valadao and Glendale area Representative Adam Schiff, along with Reps. Dold and Pallone have spearheaded the Armenian Genocide Truth + Justice Resolution, (H.Res.154). Troy, MI’s David Trott joined Representatives Pallone, Speier and Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.) in travelling to Armenia as part of the U.S. Government delegation, led by Treasury Secretary Jack Lew, to commemorate the centennial of the Armenian Genocide in 2015. All are supportive of Nagorno-Karabagh (Artsakh/NKR) and the growth of U.S.-Armenia economic, political, and military relations.

The Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues was founded by Representatives Frank Pallone (D-N.J.) and former Congressman John Porter (R-Ill.) in 1995. Since that time, the bipartisan panel has been at the forefront of Congressional action on a broad range of Armenian American concerns – from justice for the Armenian Genocide, to self-determination for Nagorno-Karabagh, stronger U.S.-Armenia ties, and support for Armenian communities in Georgia and oppressed Armenian and other Christian communities around the world. A list of Caucus members is available at https://anca.org/armenian-caucus/

The ANCA has an ongoing on-line campaign to expand Congressional Armenian Caucus Membership, urging Armenian-Americans to call on their House legislators to join and thank those who have already shown their leadership in this bi-partisan panel. To take action, visit www.anca.org/joinCaucus.

GYUMRI, Armenia (Asbarez)—Hundreds of compatriots from Armenia and the Diaspora traveled to Armenia’s second largest city on July 11 to take part of the official grand opening of the Shirvanian Youth Center, a project led by the “We Are Gyumri” committee of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Western US Central Committee.

A scene from the opening ceremony (Photo: AYF Youth Corps)

Attendees included members of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Bureau and Supreme Body of Armenia; Los Angeles Councilmember Paul Krekorian; Governor of the Shirak Province Hovsep Simonyan; and Gyumri Mayor, S. Balasanyan. The center is set to serve as a cultural, educational, and social center for the youth of the region with computer, language, song, and dance classes.

A scene from the ribbon cutting

The building that houses the newly-reconstructed Shirvanian Center has a storied past. It was built in 18^th century and served as the residence of a well-known merchant. During the Soviet era, the building was used by the local law enforcement and later became a depository for the city archives. Today, it is a bustling center that will serve the youth and community of Gyumri.

Neshan Peroomian spoke on behalf of the ARF Western US Central Committee, who recounted the humble beginnings of the project, which rallied community members young and old to ensure a successful fruition.

“More than a year ago today, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Western America Central Committee following the saying ‘With Armenia, For Armenia’ made the decision to renovate the youth center… Our humble project would not have reached completion without the strength and backbone of our community in the Western Region, including its benefactors and their immediate assistance,” said Peroomian who thanked all the donors to the project and introduced the lead benefactors Mr. and Mrs. Hacob and Mina Shirvanian, who had traveled to Gyumri to witness the fruits of their philanthropy.

ARF Supreme Body of Armenia Representative Aghvan Vardanyan said in his address, that “the initiative to open youth centers throughout Armenia was made a long time ago, as a decision of the Bureau, and our diasporan bodies working jointly with our local entities took helm of these projects. This is the first, but not last, joint project between the Western Region and the bodies within Armenia.

AYF Western US representative Hrache Novruzyan addressing the crowd

The Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) Western US representative Hrache Novruzyan noted that there are three main goals for the project as of this time: for the center to serve as a place for the Armenian Youth Federation Youth Corps program, for the work to be continued year-round, and to help those aspiring for further education by providing scholarships to students in need from Gyumri. On behalf of the “We Are Gyumri” campaign, Shant Baboujian furthered this sentiment. “With this project we hope to raise new leaders, motivate youth to aspire to reach higher degrees, and in the end serve as a small part of the socio-economic development of Gyumri which will benefit in turn, Armenia,” he said.

The opening ceremonies included dance performances by the ARF Gyumri Badanegan and “Hrayrk” Traditional Dance Ensemble. The AYF Youth Corps campers showcased what they learned in one day of camp by singing two patriotic songs.

A view of the center’s computer lab

As the official sponsors of the center, Mr. and Mrs. Hacob and Mina Shirvanian cut the red ribbon officially opening the doors to the new center, after which the building was officially blessed by local clergy. Attendees continued to mingle over traditional Armenian bread, cheese, wine, and fruits as they toured the center.

In emotional remarks, Hacob Shirvanian expressed his and wife, Mina’s gratitude to all who worked diligently to make the center possible and praised the effort for having the foresight to bring about constructive change for the betterment of the youth in Gyumri and the homeland.

The AYF took advantage of the event and kicked off the 2016 Youth Corps program, which for 22 years has been connecting Armenian youth from the diaspora to the youth in Armenia through a unique program that conducts summer camp sessions for local youth in various regions in Armenia and Artsakh.

Below is a video from the opening (Armenian).

QUEBEC, Canada—Around 20 participants between the ages of 21 and 35 from the United States and Canada arrived at Auberge du Mont-Lanaudière in Saint-Gabriel-de-Brandon, Quebec, on June 30 for ArtLinks 2016, a four-day arts retreat organized by the Hamazkayin regional boards of the East Coast, West Coast, and Canada. The program promised to deliver five engaging workshops run by experts in their respective fields covering film, theater, journalism, leadership, and mythology. Participants, workshop leaders, and organizers emerged from the weekend having gained so much more—from newly gained knowledge to an immersion in the arts and, more importantly, an opportunity to engage with others who have an appreciation for the exploration of the arts and of Armenian culture.

A group portrait in the field

“ArtLinks was incredible—an amazing weekend of great people, limitless conversation, and a reminder that as the future leaders in our communities we can be the beginning of change! This was a weekend that I won’t forget,” said Helena Bardakjian, a participant who hailed from Detroit.

Upon arriving at the retreat, the participants were given folders containing information, ArtLinks tees, and a room number. Once everyone had gathered in the cafeteria for the lahmajun and mana’ish dinner, the chair of the Hamazkayin regional of Canada, Dzovig Kahvejian, offered welcoming remarks, which were followed by introductions. The evening waned with conversations, discussions, and games.

Culture as Experimentation and Exploration

Saturday’s program began immediately after breakfast with welcoming remarks and a brief presentation by Khatchig Mouradian, ArtLinks program director and former Armenian Weekly editor. He spoke about the significance of ArtLinks, how we relate to culture today, and the type of impact culture has on space and time. Mouradian focused on his travels to Western Armenia, and spoke about the choice some Islamized Armenians are making today in discovering their roots and reconnecting with their Armenian culture despite the monumental challenges facing them.

Program Director Khatchig Mouradian welcomes participants

“For 101 years, Armenians in the diaspora and Armenia have tried to preserve their culture in the hopes that one day it will resonate beyond the diaspora and Armenia… Today, that culture is returning to the lands from where it was uprooted, and helping those who are trying to rediscover their identity,” said Mouradian. He noted, however, that “culture is not something that needs to be preserved, but something that is celebrated.”

Continuing his discussion about Islamized Armenians, Mouradian stressed, “Culture is at its best when it is open to experimentation and exploration.” He warned against narrowing down the definition of who is Armenian, and suggested broadening it instead, embracing all those who try to reconnect with their roots. “We need to embrace them for our own good, not their own good,” he added. In the diaspora, we often take for granted the freedom to learn our language and explore our culture, whereas for some, for example those living in Turkey, it is a challenge. We can learn and be inspired by them, he said.

“If we just try to preserve culture, like pickles, it’s not going to work. It’s about opening things up. It’s about experimentation. That is how we look at ArtLinks. We bring the speakers and workshop leaders that are somehow connected to Armenianness and offer different perspectives together. It’s about bringing people together to think about Armenian culture and identity,” Mouradian said.

Workshop on Film Explores Collaboration

The first workshop of the program was led by filmmaker Talin Avakian, who explored with participants how one can watch a film critically, how to decipher the intentions of the filmmaker, and what constitutes storytelling. She said that even social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat are ways for individuals to tell their stories.

Talin Avakian during the workshop on film (Photo: Nanore Barsoumian)

Avakian spoke about her personal artistic journey, which has taken her from drawing sketches to illustrating cartoons to film. She stressed the importance of the support of her community and family in her journey, and discussed her own struggle to gain confidence in filmmaking.

Avakian also focused on the importance of finding one’s voice. “Your voice might not be so loud and profound at first,” she said, but it is important to learn from your mistakes, while building confidence along the way. In her journey, Avakian discovered that she is a collaborative worker, working with different voices and drawing from the strengths of individuals on a team.

She showed two clips–one a compilation of segments of her work, and one short film titled, “Two Tales of a City.”

She also discussed the history of storytelling and the moving image, and showed a short documentary about “The Birth of Cinema.” She briefly discussed composition, lighting, mis-en-scene, framing, art direction and production design, camera angle, and game.

Avakian’s discussion was peppered with various exercises that demonstrated certain concepts: Participants played games that stressed the importance of collaboration. They engaged in a storytelling exercise using Instagram. Finally, they were tasked with directing a clip over the course of the weekend that would put to use some of the knowledge gained during the workshop.

Avakian is a filmmaker who explores themes of identity, cultural appropriation and struggle, coming of age, and fantasy versus reality in her work. She has produced, shot, edited, and directed numerous films, some of which have made their way around the festival circuit winning awards. She holds a BFA in film/video from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design.

Workshop on Theater Focuses on Space, Movement

Following a break for lunch, the group reconvened for the day’s second workshop led by Vaneh Assadourian, a Los Angeles based actor and director.

Assadourian spoke about the challenges facing those wishing to “make it” as an actor, in terms of the role of agents, personal talents, and demand. “[Acting] is not just about talent but making a product,” she said.

Assadourian shared some of her personal experiences in the acting world, including the role of commercial, theatrical, and film agents; auditions (even tips on what to wear); resume drafting; headshots; and a reel (snippets of one’s work). She also discussed the business side of acting, juxtaposing it with the creative and fun side.

A theater training exercise during Vaneh Assadourian’s workshop

She then touched on some of the training that goes into acting. She escorted the group to the open field across from the house, where she led training exercises for the better portion of the workshop, where participants were forced to be aware of their own bodies, movements, surroundings, and others who they shared that space with.

In 2015, Assadourian earned her B.A. in both directing and acting from UCLA’s School of Theatre, Film, and Television. Recently, she served as the assistant director of the world premiere of SALOME at the Mack Sennett Studios in Los Angeles, and is currently teaching the acting workshop series at the Hamazkayin Cultural Center in Glendale.

Vaneh Assadourian during leads the theater workshop (Photo: Nanore Barsoumian)

Following the theater workshop, participants and organizers made their way to the nearby lake, where some swam, while others ate ice cream and chatted. One group found itself on unplanned dog-sitting duty, as a lost dog that had wandered to the house earlier in the day had followed them to the lake. Boss the dog enjoyed the company of the group, belly rubs, and ham sandwiches well into the evening when its owner came to pick him up.

Following a power outage and, finally, dinner, which was prepared by resident chef extraordinaire (and stand-up-comedian) Levon Kaprielian, participants dispersed into the game room where they played pool, ping pong, foosball, and cards, and some enjoyed the rooftop Jacuzzi.

A scene from Vaneh Assadourian’s Theater Workshop (Photo: Nanore Barsoumian)

Leadership and Culture

Saturday morning, participants ate breakfast and gathered to engage in Dr. Kristi Rendahl’s workshop on “Leadership and Culture.” Rendahl lived and worked in Armenia from 1997 to 2002 and visits the country regularly. She currently works with the Center for Victims of Torture as the organizational development advisor to 10 torture treatment centers around the world. Rendahl is also an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas and Hamline University in Minnesota, and will teach at ITESO University in Guadalajara, Mexico, in the summer of 2016.

Kristi Rendahl leads the leadership workshop (Photo: Nanore Barsoumian)

Rendahl opened the workshop by greeting and offering introductory remarks in Armenian. She locked the attention of the participants through a brief writing exercise, asking participants to write an acrostic poem using the word “Leadership.”

This was followed by a free-writing exercise. The writing prompt asked participants to begin writing with the following in mind: “My culture is…”; “I see my culture’s influence in the way that I…”; and “Cultures build leaders by…” Some shared their writing with the group.

Rendahl then shared diagrams of the cultural types of the Lewis Model, national cultural models, the Hofstede Model, and a table of low-context and high-context countries and their features. While these models were shared, participants engaged in discussions sharing their observations and thoughts on where Armenian culture is situated within these models. Rendahl also discussed the sociopolitical contexts of various groups (post-colonial, post-communist, post-conflict, and those who fit in one or more of these categories).

Following a presentation of her personal experience leading, observing various leadership styles, and meeting upcoming leaders in various countries, Rendahl divided the participants into groups, offering them guiding questions for a discussion, which participants later shared with the group at large. The discussion centered on leaders the participants knew in their personal lives, how their cultures influenced their leadership styles, and whether they felt their culture could inhibit their leadership.

Rendahl’s workshop was marked by lively and honest discussions.

Writing the Story

The second workshop of the day was led by journalist Liana Aghajanian, who began the workshop by speaking about her journey to journalism. She discussed what journalism means to her, and how it has offered her a mode of witnessing and interacting with the world and strangers.

Speaking about what journalism encompasses, she recalled the saying, “[Journalism is] the first rough draft of history.”

Liana Aghajanian leads the journalism workshop (Photo: Nanore Barsoumian)

Aghajanian discussed what makes something newsworthy: timeliness, proximity, conflict and controversy, human interest, and relevance. She spoke about some of the stories she has written over the years and why she has been attracted to these stories.

She then led a discussion focused on the following questions: Where do you get your news? What news is most important to you? What are stories that you think should receive more media coverage but don’t? These questions led to a robust and open discussion on why some stories receive wide coverage while others do not.

Aghajanian then divided the group into teams, and sent them off to interview organizers on various aspects of the ArtLinks program and write a news item about it. Half an hour later, the teams returned to share their stories, which opened way for further discussions.

Aghajanian is a journalist who explores the issues, people, and places that remain hidden on the fringes of society. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, the Guardian, Newsweek, BBC News Magazine, and Al Jazeera America. She also authors a bi-monthly column for L.A. Times Community News covering the intersection of identity, immigration, and culture, and occasionally runs an online magazine geared towards Armenia and its various diasporas.

In the afternoon, Tamar Chahinian and Nareh Nokhoudian from the Montreal Armenian TV station Horizon arrived. They proceeded to interview workshop leaders and organizers. Nokhoudian stayed on, capturing segments of ArtLinks events as the evening progressed.

Horizon TV’s Tamar Chahinian interviews Kristi Rendahl (Photo: Meghry Avakian)

A musical evening followed when Beirut-based professional guitarist Megerditch Mikayelian played some numbers on his guitar and presented videos of performances. Participants also shared their own musical talents; some sang, others played the guitar, and still others danced. Outside, a bonfire drew participants. The night evolved into a celebration of dance and music.

Sunday Workshop and Goodbyes

Two brief presentations followed breakfast on Sunday morning, before the final workshop of the program. First, Tamar Donabedian Kuzuian spoke about the Hamazkayin Forum, its history, and its aim. Her presentation was accompanied by a slideshow. She encouraged participants to consider attending the forum.

It is always a good time for a Shourchbar! (Photo: Meghry Avakian)

Next, Armenian Environmental Network (AEN) Executive Director Serda Ozbenian and environmental writer and co-manager of the Thousand Leaf Project Lena Tachdjian spoke about the recently launched Thousand Leaf Project, which is sponsored through a partnership with AEN and the American University of Armenia (AUA). The project is in the form of a website that documents (in Armenian and English) plants, herbs, and mushrooms that are used by Armenians worldwide, and their properties. The project encourages people to submit names, recipes, stories, locations, and sustainable harvesting methods of plants and mushrooms that Armenians have come to use (and not just in Armenia). The end goal of the project is to encourage eco-tourism and sustainability. For more information, visit www.1000leaf.aua.am.

Following these brief presentations, Mheir Karakashian led the workshop on Armenian mythology, covering the various regions of historic Armenia, and the mythologies associated with those areas. Karakashian supplemented his talk with a slideshow that featured images of archaeological discoveries, maps, as well as illustrations and sculptures depicting figures from Armenian mythology. He spoke about the 7,500-year-old Karahunch where people went to observe the stars and worship, Oughdasar where hunters would make a sacrifice for a successful hunt, and the Metzamor Observatory.

Mheir Karakashian speaking on Armenian Mythology

Karakashian discussed the various symbols that are associated with Armenian mythology, such as the dragon, the snake, the sun sign/symbol of eternity, and the tree of life. Armenians have always had a connection with fire, he stressed. He spoke about the Urartian Kingdom, the Van fortress, and Mher’s Door (the site of ancient inscriptions that is credited to the Urartian King Menua). He profiled the various gods worshipped in historic Armenia (Khalti, Shivini, Warupani, Mihr, Asdghig, Anahid, Vahakn, Nane, Amanor, Vanadur, etc.). He shared some of the myths that have traveled down to us, and highlighted important locations such as Van, Nemrut, Gamakh, etc.

Karakashian also spoke about the origins of Vartavar, the Armenian tradition where individuals splash water on one another. He said that the temple of Asdghig, the goddess of water and love, was located on the shore of the river Aradzani (or Murad), which people would decorate with roses; the tradition stems from there.

Karakashian is a teacher and coordinator of Armenian studies at the Sourp Hagop Armenian School in Montreal. Following his studies in communication arts in Lebanon, Karakashian graduated from the film studies program of Concordia University, specializing in film production. He has also co-authored three volumes of Armenian poetry.

Following Karakashian’s talk, closing remarks were offered by Mouradian, Kahvedjian, and Hamazkayin Central Executive member Viken Tufenkjian.

Participants and organizers before saying goodbye (Photo: Helena Bardakjian)

As a last activity, participants were asked to head outside and line up under the banister for one last group photo. The camera rolled, the participants smiled, and down poured the water! After all, Vartavar was on that very same day!

Happy Vartavar!

Hamazkayin Central Executive members Hrair Baronian (United States) and Viken Tufenkjian (Canada) were present during the length of the four-day program, as they were also heavily engaged in the organizing. During the span of the program, following each presentation, Hamazkayin Regional Board members Dzovig Kahvejian (Canada), Manoug Joulkhajian and Zvig Guedikian (West Coast), and Nanore Barsoumian (East Coast) presented the workshop leaders with a copy of Toronto-based photographer Kaloust Babian’s self-titled photo book as a token of gratitude.

Strangers become friends before the end of the program

“Not only were the workshops at ArtLinks insightful and thought provoking, but they allowed us to critically examine our Armenian identity and culture. We were able to learn a lot and gain perspective. All the participants bonded and we made friendships that will last a lifetime. I feel lucky that I was able to participate in ArtLinks,” reflected Seda Byurat, a participant from Los Angeles.

This was the second annual ArtLinks program. The first took place in New York in the summer of 2015 and featured scholar Talar Chahinian, photojournalist Scout Tufankjian, filmmaker Eric Nazarian, novelist Aline Ohanesian, and actor and playwright Eric Bogosian.

WASHINGTON–Members of Washington’s diplomatic, international finance, government, and public policy communities joined Armenian American leaders at an Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) roundtable talk–led by the Development Foundation of Armenia’s (DFA) Garen Mikirditsian–exploring strategies to expand U.S.-Armenia trade and investment and grow Armenia’s economy.

DFA’s Garen Mikirditsian (R) discussing U.S.-Armenia investment opportunities during a July 13 roundtable, moderated by the ANCA’s Aram Hamparian (L).

The two-hour program was held in the ANCA’s Aramian Conference Room.

“We were pleased to provide this opportunity for Garen Mikirditsian to share his compelling vision for Armenia’s economic growth, to openly address concerns raised by friends of Armenia, and to cooperatively explore ways that Armenian stakeholders in Washington, DC’s international affairs community can continue to contribute to the growth of the U.S.-Armenia bilateral economic relationship,” said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian, who moderated the talk.

Mikirditsian outlined the short term and long term goals of the Development Foundation of Armenia, which promotes the economic growth and global competitiveness of Armenia based businesses by attracting and encouraging investments and expanding export markets, as well as promoting Armenia internationally as an attractive tourism destination. The DFA was established by the Government of Armenia in 2015 with a Board of Directors chaired by the Prime Minister and includes representation both from the private sector and the ministries of Economy, Finance and Agriculture. Mikirditsian was appointed acting chief executive officer in April 2016.

Roundtable participants asked detailed questions about a broad range of topics, including efforts to expand Armenia’s burgeoning IT (Information Technology) sector, new tourism sector opportunities, the growing wine industry in Armenia, and the need to overcome longstanding obstacles to investment. Mikirditsian highlighted ongoing cooperation with the World Bank and a close working relationship with the U.S. Embassy and USAID, particularly in the joint effort with the Smithsonian Institute to develop Armenia’s tourism strategy and targeted capacity building initiatives. Upcoming 2016 efforts to spotlight Armenia’s textile and light manufacturing sectors during a trade exposition in Yerevan, Armenia and a planned investors’ forum in the U.S. were also discussed.

The focus on U.S.-Armenia trade relations increased significantly last year with the signing of a Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA), a bilateral accord advocated by the ANCA for over a decade as part of a broader campaign to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation. To build on that understanding, the ANCA is working to secure a double tax treaty in order to establish a clear legal framework for investors and individuals that have business activities in both jurisdictions, preventing double taxation and facilitating the expansion of economic relations. For additional information and to call on U.S. legislators to implement a U.S.-Armenia double tax treaty, visit http://anca.org/trade.

For decades Armenians living in the Northern Merrimack Valley region of Massachusetts have been parishioners of two stalwart churches, St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church of Haverhill and Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Church of Lawrence. Families of these two parishes attended weekly service, christenings, marriages, funerals as well as countless dances and socials. These two churches have been at the heart and soul of the local Armenian community!

This project is seen as a potential change within the church community, as many smaller parishes are financially struggling due to minimal membership and the pooling of resources can help strengthen communities.

Due to socioeconomic changes in the region, in 2002, these two communities agreed to merge and, with the approval of the Diocese, created one new greater and stronger church called the Armenian Apostolic Church at Hye Pointe. Parishioners of both churches have become one new community, developing a legacy for their children and grandchildren as they grow and develop through the Armenian culture.

In 2011, the Diocese appointed Reverend Father Vart Gyozalyan as pastor of this new community. He and his family have been an inspiration to this community. The spirit and vision of Father Vart has helped to strengthen this community and build a future legacy for their families!

In May 2016, the Armenian Church at Hye Pointe found a buyer and secured a construction loan to begin building their legacy. In June 2016, they will break ground on the construction of the Family Life Center, which will address the immediate needs of providing spiritual services every Sunday as well as classrooms for Sunday School students, fellowship events, and other community functions.

The importance of remaining part of the Merrimack Valley was a key decision in the merger of these two communities. The new site will remain in in the Bradford/Haverhill communities to ensure the Armenian community’s support of the Merrimack Valley.

As Father Vart says, nothing starts happening until somebody starts dreaming. Every accomplishment started off first as an idea in somebody’s mind. It started off as a dream. It started off as a vision, a goal. If we don’t have a goal for our church, our default goal is to remain the same. If we aim at nothing, we’re definitely going to hit it.

“The Scriptures declare that with God, ‘all things are possible unto them that believe.’ As the pastor of the Armenian Apostolic Church at Hye Pointe, I believe and trust God for our new Sanctuary and Family Life Center (Multi-Purpose Hall and Educational Facility). God has anointed and appointed me to lead the Armenian Apostolic Church at Hye Pointe family,” said Father Vart.

This project is seen as a potential change within the church community, as many smaller parishes are financially struggling due to minimal membership and the pooling of resources can help strengthen communities.

Over the next few months, it is the hope of this parish that members of the greater Armenian community will see the potential impact to the community in the Merrimack Valley, and want to become part of creating a new legacy for Armenians living in the Merrimack Valley.

For more information, e-mail Gary Townsend at gtownsend@verizon.net or call the Armenian Apostolic Church at Hye Pointe at (978) 372-9227.

Naomi Tazian (1936-2016)

Naomi “Nicki” Tazian, 80, passed away July 10. Born July 9, 1936, in Fort Wayne, Ind. Nicki was the daughter of the late Bernard and Golda (Mann) Kramer. She lived in Fort Wayne her entire life.

In 1967, Nicki co-founded Z.K. Tazian Associates and over the years, she traveled worldwide. Her proudest accomplishments were raising her family, spending quality time with her grandchildren, and volunteering at non-profit organizations including the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Art League, and Christ Child Society. She was also a member of the Armenian Relief Society.

Nicki was a thoughtful, funny, generous spirit, who lived a full life with a big heart. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, and loyal friend. Through decades of health challenges, she defied the odds thanks to her strength, determination, and positive attitude. Nicki never complained and always put others at ease with her infectious smile. She loved playing bridge and mahjong, reading mystery novels, and attending Broadway musicals. Nicki was a legendary entertainer, world-class cook, and renowned baklava baker.

She is survived by her husband, Zohrab, who she marries on Sept. 16,1959 at the St. Hagop Armenian Apostolic Church in Beirut, Lebanon. Also surviving are her children, Tina (Marc Schwartz) Tazian, Sona (Frank Catalano) Tazian, Ara Tazian, and Hera (Jeffrey) Lauritsen; and grandchildren, Nicholas, Paige, Adrienne, and Sophia. Nicki also leaves behind numerous lifelong friends.

Service is Fri., July 15, 2016, at St. John Chrysostom Antiochian Orthodox Church (402 Badiac Road, Fort Wayne) at noon with calling one hour prior. His Grace Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian assisted by Very Reverend Father Ghevont Pentezian officiating.

Visitation is from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thurs., July 14, 2016, at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home (1320 East Dupont Road). Burial to take place immediately following funeral service at Highland Park Cemetery (2403 E. Wallen Road).

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Christ Child Society of Fort Wayne – www.christchildsocietyfw.org or Armenian Relief Society www.arseastusa.org/donate/.

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Condolences

The ARF Eastern Region Central Committee extends its deepest condolences to former ARF Eastern Region Central Committee member Unger Zohrab Tazian, and his family, on the passing of his wife Naomi Tazian.

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The ARS Eastern USA extends its deepest condolences to the family of Ungerouhi Naomi Tazian

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The editors and staff of the Hairenik and Armenian Weekly newspapers extend their deepest condolences to the Tazian family.

YEREVAN—Wound care remains a considerable medical and surgical concern in Armenia and the world. With the introduction of new technologies, it has evolved considerably during the past decade. At the initiative of Dr. Gevorg Yaghdjyan, an associate professor of plastic surgery at Yerevan State Medical University Heratsi Hospital, a wound care project was launched in April 2016. Its goal was to improve wound care in the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Nagorno-Karabagh (NKR/Artsakh) by identifying, acquiring, and distributing modern equipment, and improving the education of surgeons and other healthcare professionals at major medical institutions.

The implementation of the program required the collaboration of several organizations. Boston area physicians, Drs. Carolann Najarian and Shahe Fereshetian, accepted a donation of modern V.A.C. VERAFLO™ and V.A.C. ULTA™ units from Acelity, which help in the treatment of wounds in the safest and most effective way. Christine Grogan of Acelity was instrumental in making the donation of 12 machines (valued at $717,344) happen. The Boston area Armenian-American Medical Association funded the project. The Armenia-Artsakh Fund organized the air delivery of the devices, and the Fund for Armenian Relief ensured their receipt in Yerevan and distribution in Armenia and Artsakh.

Meeting with Artsakh Minister of Health Dr. Karine Atayan

Acelity, an American company based in San Antonio, Texas, is a world leader in advanced wound care and regenerative medicine; it was created by uniting the strengths of three companies, Kinetic Concepts, Inc., LifeCell Corporation, and Systagenix Wound Management, Limited (formerly Johnson & Johnson). Acelity started as an operation in a one-bedroom apartment in San Antonio in 1976 by an emergency room physician who saw the value of kinetic therapy in dealing with spinal cord injuries, multiple trauma, and severe pulmonary condition. From 13 original employees, Acelity now employs 5,800. The company is committed to restoring people’s lives around the world, and is proud to have donated V.A.C. VERAFLO™ and V.A.C. ULTA™ therapies for the treatment of wound care in Armenia. Each year, Acelity donates millions of dollars and products to help heal people involved in the aftermath of global tragic disasters, including Haiti, Ecuador, San Bernardino, Paris, and Brussels, and the recent horrific attack in Orlando.

V.A.C. equipment donation and introduction at the St. Astvatsamayr Children’s Hospital

Based on a previously established plan, the distribution of equipment began on June 22, and 8 medical centers, including the St. Astvatsamayr Children’s Hospital, received V.A.C. VERAFLO™ and V.A.C. ULTA™ equipment.

Training session at the Stepanakert Republican Hospital

In parallel with the distribution of the equipment, the training of medical personnel started on June 16. Dr. Allen Gabriel, from Portland, Ore., gave the first teleconference presentation to teams of physicians in Gyumri, Stepanakert, and Yerevan.

Dr. Allen Gabriel giving a teleconference presentation

ISTANBUL, Turkey (RFE/RL)—Security operations are continuing in Turkey following a failed military coup attempt overnight that left scores of people dead and more than 1,000 injured.

Although the government said the situation in the country is “under control,” President Recep Tayyip Erdogan posted a message on Twitter urging supporters to remain in the streets to prevent “a new flare-up” of coup activity.

Civilians swarming soldiers who had taken up posts on Taksim Square (Photo: AFP)

Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Haberturk television on July 16 that 161 people were killed and 1,440 were injured during the unrest the previous night.

He did not appear to be including the 104 soldiers supporting the coup who were reported killed overnight, meaning the death total for the unrest would be 265.

Yildirim said 2,839 military personnel supporting the coup attempt had been arrested.

He said the coup attempt was a “black mark” on Turkish democracy.

Earlier, government officials said five generals and 29 colonels have been removed from their posts for suspected involvement in the bid to overthrow Erdogan’s government.

The acting military chief of staff, General Umit Dundar, said that 41 police officers were among the dead.

“The coup attempt has been foiled,” Dundar said at an Ankara news conference.

Dundar said that an unknown number of loyalist military officers are still being held by coup plotters in unknown locations.

He said the military is determined to eliminate “parallel structures” within its ranks.

“A group within the military carried out an attempt, outside of the chain of command, to overthrow the democratically elected government,” Erdogan’s office said in a statement early on July 16.

Yildirim called an extraordinary session of parliament for July 16 to discuss the crisis.

Turkish maritime authorities reported that the Bosphorus Strait had been reopened and that traffic through the strategic waterway was “back to normal.”

A man lies in front of a Turkish Army tank at Istanbul’s Ataturk airport (Photo: RFE/RL)

Eight soldiers who were involved in the coup fled in a helicopter to neighboring Greece. Ankara has called for their extradition, while Athens said it would consider the soldiers’ asylum request.

Regional powers Iran and Israel both issued statements condemning the coup attempt. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said he had spoken three times with his Turkish counterpart and wrote on Twitter that “coups have no place in our region.”

Saudi Arabia also said it “welcomes the return of the situation to normal under the leadership” of Erdogan.

The coup plotters used tanks and aircraft during the night, including attacks on the parliament building and the president’s office in Ankara. The headquarters of Turkey’s intelligence service also came under attack during the night.

The state-run news agency Anadolu reported that some 200 unarmed soldiers at the Turkish military headquarters had surrendered to government security forces.

The chief of the military staff, General Hulusi Akar, was detained by coup supporters during the night but was freed by a helicopter rescue mission early on July 16.

Most news stations in the country appeared to be up and running again, and Istanbul’s Ataturk airport, which the military had shut down at the outset of the putsch attempt, had resumed processing flights.

Dozens of civilians were killed and hundreds wounded in nightlong battles and street fighting in Istanbul and other cities, with the heaviest casualties of at least 42 dead in Ankara, the scene of the heaviest fighting.

At around 7:30 p.m. on July 15, members of the Turkish military blocked access to the Bosphorus bridge, which links Istanbul’s European and Asian sides.

Erdogan claimed the coup plotters had tried to kill him by bombing a resort where he had been vacationing. He arrived back in Istanbul during the night to rally supporters against the coup and to pledge to “cleanse” the military of disloyal elements.

“They will pay a heavy price for this act of treason,” Erdogan said when he arrived at Istanbul’s airport. “We will not leave our country to occupiers.”

At a critical time during the struggle, U.S. President Barack Obama urged all parties to support Erdogan’s democratically elected government and to “show restraint and avoid any violence or bloodshed,” the White House said.

The photo shows damage to the Turkish Parliament in Ankara (Photo: Twitter/Ömer Çelik)

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said he spoke with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and emphasized the United States’ “absolute support” for the government.

Their announcements were echoed quickly afterward by the leaders of the European Union, German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s office, and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, a key colleague of Turkish military officers who called for “full respect for Turkey’s democratic institutions and constitution.”

EU leaders Donald Tusk and Jean-Claude Juncker on July 16 urged a “swift return” to normalcy in Turkey, saying “there is no alternative to democracy and the rule of law.”

While Erdogan and his deputies blamed a handful of military officers for leading a “minority” uprising in the military, overall they blamed the coup attempt on a political opponent: the reclusive Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, who lives in exile in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania.

Prime Minister Yildirim said countries that support Gulen would be considered enemies of Turkey.

Gulen, a one-time Erdogan ally with many followers in Turkey’s military and government offices, vigorously denied any involvement, saying “governments should be won through a process of free and fair elections, not force.”

“As someone who suffered under multiple military coups during the past five decades, it is especially insulting to be accused of having any link to such an attempt,” Gulen, 75, said, adding, “I categorically deny such accusations.”

NATO-member Turkey, with a population of some 80 million, is a key player in the effort to combat the Islamic State terrorist group in Iraq and Syria.

YEREVAN (RFE/RL)— One police officer was killed and two others wounded early on July 17, when members of an Armenian radical opposition group seized a police station in Yerevan, demanding the release of its leader arrested last month for allegedly plotting an armed revolt.

Police vehicles block a road leading to the Yerevan police station (Photo: Photolure.am)

Varuzhan Avetisian, one of the members of the Founding Parliament movement that stormed the police building in Yerevan’s southern Erebuni district, said the “rebellion” is also aimed at forcing President Serge Sarkisian to step down.

Avetisian told RFE/RL’s Armenian service (Azatutyun.am) that several law-enforcement officers and Founding Parliament members were wounded when police tried unsuccessfully to retake control of the building.

Residents of nearby apartment buildings said they heard several explosions in the early hours of the morning. “There were also many gunshots afterwards,” one of them said.

The Armenian police and other security services cordoned off the area later in the morning. The National Security Service (NSS) said the attackers are holding hostage police personnel inside the building.

“Negotiations are being conducted with the armed individuals with the aim of organizing their surrender to the Armenian authorities,” the NSS said in a statement.

Another NSS statement released later in the day said one police officer was killed and two others wounded in the attack. “Armenian law-enforcement bodies fully control the situation and are taking all necessary measures to resolve it,” it said.

Founding Parliament’s Avetisian blamed the police for the bloodshed. In a Facebook post, he said the “rebels” fought back in “self-defense” when security forces attempted to retake the building.

Nikol Pashinian, an Armenian mainstream opposition leader, visited the Erebuni police station and spoke with Avetisian and other armed men. He told reporters afterwards that he saw about 25 people inside the building and that 8 of them were police officers. Among them, he said, were a deputy head of the national police, Vartan Yeghiazarian, and Yerevan’s deputy police chief, Valeri Osipian.

Pashinian suggested that Yeghiazarian and Osipian arrived at the scene to negotiate with the attackers. He also said that one of the police hostages was freed after his health condition deteriorated.

Jirair Sefilian, Founding Parliament’s top leader, was taken into custody on June 20 after allegedly acquiring large quantities of weapons and forming an armed group to seize government buildings in Yerevan. Law-enforcement authorities also announced the arrest of six other individuals.

Sefilian was afterwards formally charged with only illegal acquisition and possession of weapons and ammunition. The outspoken oppositionist and his associates strongly deny the charges as politically motivated.

Founding Parliament has repeatedly demanded its leader’s release, saying that he is prosecuted because he planned to thwart Armenian territorial concessions which President Sarkisian allegedly plans to make to Azerbaijan.

Late last year, Founding Parliament teamed up with several other small opposition groups to try to force Sarkisian to resign with a series of anti-government rallies in Yerevan. The campaign fizzled out due to poor attendance of those rallies.

Early this year Sefilian’s group tried in vain to make another push for regime change. It again failed to win over mainstream opposition parties represented in Armenia’s parliament.

Less than two weeks before his arrest, Sefilian announced plans to set up a new opposition movement called the National Resistance Committee. The Lebanese-born oppositionist said it will try to topple the government “with the help of the people and the army.” lanned to thwart Armenian territorial concessions which President Sarkisian allegedly plans to make to Azerbaijan.

By Ani Gulbenk

PARK RIDGE, N.J.—The 96th Annual Convention of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern USA, hosted by the Agnouni, Bergen, Shake and Spitak ARS chapters of New Jersey, convened on Fri., July 15, at the Park Ridge Marriott Hotel in New Jersey. Nineteen chapters were represented with 38 delegates, as well as the Board of Regional Directors.

Participants and guests of the 96th Convention of the ARS Eastern USA

Central Executive Board Chairwoman Ungeruhi Caroline Chamovanian, ARS Central Executive Board representative Ungeruhi Silva Kouyoumdjian, Canadian Regional Chairwoman, Ungeruhi Arminee Karabetian, and Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Eastern U.S. Central Committee member Unger Khajag Mgrdichian attended as guests. Other guests included Ungeruhi Valentine Berberian (Mayr, N.Y.), Ungeruhi Gemma Vartanian (Erebouni, N.Y.), and Ani Panossian Mouradian. Many local New Jersey and New York chapter members attended the convention as observers.

The convention was called to order by the Eastern Region’s Board of Directors Chairwoman Ungeruhi Talin Daghlian who welcomed the delegates and thanked those present. She invited attendees to stand for a moment of silence in memory of departed ARS members and in honor of the heroes of Artsakh and for those in Syria.  Daghlian also thanked the organizing committee and the New Jersey chapters for hosting the convention.

Daghlian reminded the delegates that the annual report was thoughtfully prepared and should be reviewed carefully because based on its assessment, the attendees would decide on the Board’s direction for the next year. She emphasized that it is the responsibility of the delegates to establish thoughtful suggestions and resolutions for the coming year.

Awards were presented to acknowledge the service of individual members for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to the ARS of Eastern USA.

Ungeruhi Silva Kouyoumdjian, Central Executive Board (CEB) representative, then led in the singing of the ARS anthem. The meeting then proceeded with the election of the temporary chairs who later became the permanent chairs; they were Ungeruhis Shakeh Basmajian and Seran Tcholakian, both of Michigan. Elected English Secretaries were Unger Manoog Kaprielian and Ungeruhi Dalida Shadoyan Ghoussoub, the Armenian Secretaries were Ungeruhis  Elizabeth Dramgotchian and Vartouhi Koumrigian. Resolution Committee members were Ungeruhis Ani Gulbenk, Linda kechejian, and Svetlana Babajanyan. This was followed by the election of the many committees that are required as per the convention requirements.

The report of the Central Executive Board was presented by Ungeruhi Silva Kouyoumdjian, who serves as treasurer and liaison to the Eastern Region.  Daghlian, who represented the Eastern region at the 71rst convention, reported on the CEB 71st International Convention held in Armenia last October.

A special presentation of the Agnouni Award was made by Chairwoman Daghlian.

In the afternoon, the Board of Regional Directors’ Annual Report was presented by Ungeruhi Sevan Kolejian, which was followed by a question and answer session. Then the treasurer’s report was given by Ungeruhi Margie Babikian Medina. Most of the programs and projects were discussed later on during the convention.

Prior to the close of the day’s session, many fundraising activities were discussed, such as the Online Auction, the Art Show, Walk Armenia, the Annual Raffle (that will resume in 2016-17),  and the upcoming Shadoyan Fashion Show that will take place on Thurs., Oct. 6. In a tremendously benevolent gesture, a number of chapters spontaneously donated money to help defray the costs for this event.

The opening ceremonies and a buffet reception were held Friday evening at the hotel, hosted by the ARS New Jersey four chapters. Representing the Armenian Prelacy of America, Rev Fr. Bozoyan, pastor of Sts. Vartanantz church, provided an invocation for the meal and expressed his best wishes for a successful convention.

The Agnouni Award was presented to Ungeruhi Valentine Berberian
as an acknowledgment for her many years of service as representative
and coordinator of ARS delegates and activities at the United Nations.

Khajag Mgrdichian, ARF Central Committee executive member and liaison to the ARS of Eastern USA Board of Directors, acknowledged and appreciated the eastern region for always supporting its brothers and sisters in Syria and Artsakh, and wished the delegates a very successful convention. Yeghpayr Hovsep Minasian of Homenetmen and Ungeruhi Talin Mavlian Barsemian of Hamazkayin delivered their messages on behalf of their organizations with hopes that the organizations will continue to work together to achieve its goals.

On behalf of the Armenian Youth Federation of the Eastern Region, Ungeruhi Vartenie Kachichian, President of the AYF-YOARF New Jersey Arsen Chapter, expressed her appreciation to the ARS of Eastern Region by stating, “The relationship between ARS and the AYF is very important to us. The ARS of Eastern USA provides opportunities to AYF members such as helping with funds at Camp Haiastan and encouraging us with scholarships as well as being a local backbone to support our chapters with anything we need.”

The evening allowed the delegates and others to socialize and enjoy the well prepared delicacies.

On Saturday, the topics of the convention were organizational in nature: public relations, membership drive, and financial resources. The delegates had a chance to further discuss eastern regional programs and projects such as the Youth Connect Program, the Armenian National Educational Council (ANEC), and Camp Haiastan. Afterwards, a report on the projects/programs that this region sponsors in Armenia, Javakhk, and Artsakh were presented and discussed. All of the committees reported to the delegates, the final report of the Resolutions Committee was presented and the proposed budget of the 2016-17 fiscal year was approved.

Members of the ARS Eastern USA board and guests

The convention then welcomed Anahid Mesrobian, who was hired by the CEB to administer the Sponsor an Orphan program in Armenia since its inception. Mesrobian reported on the status of the orphans.  She explained that because of the most current conflicts in Karabagh, more than 100 orphans are available for sponsorship and 300 are available for support through the Orphan Education Fund. These are orphans who have aged out and now require support for their college education. Mesrobian relayed her deepest gratitude to the region for the support it has provided to more than 1,000 orphans since the program began, and encouraged the attendees to continue to support the orphans who are still in need of sponsors.

As the last agenda item of the day, the election for the Regional Board was held.  The nominating committee presented a slate of nominees for the 2016-17 Board of Regional Directors, which was followed by the election. The ARS Regional Board of Directors for the 2016-17 year are as follows: Talin Daghlian, (Agnouni, N.J.) and Sonia Bezdikian (Mayr, N.Y.), both re-elected for their second term; as well as new board members Sandra Vartanian (Erebouni, N.Y.) and Johanna Chilingirian (Sushi, Cambridge). The remaining board members are MaryAnne Bonjuklian (Bergen County, N.J.), Margie Babikian­Medina (Bergen County, N.J.), and Silva Sagherian (Tzolig, Mich.). Two alternates were also elected and they are Nartouhi Abrimian (first delegate) and Ani Gulbenk (second delegate).

The convention banquet commenced in a ballroom at the Park Ridge Marriott. Daghlian welcomed the attendees to the banquet. Silva Kouyoumdjian of the ARS Central Executive Board and Ungeruhi Arminee’ Karabetian, chairperson of ARS of Canada’s Regional Board, gave their messages.

It was a special evening in that ARS members had been nominated by their chapters to receive the “Year of Service” awards. This year was proclaimed the “Year of Service” by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. The awards were presented by the ARS of Eastern USA Board of Directors to acknowledge the service of individual members for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to the ARS of Eastern USA.  The following members received their award at the Banquet: Gemma Vartanian (Erebouni, N.Y.), Talin Daghlian (Agnouni, N.J.), Margie Babikian Medina (Bergen County, N.J.), Anais Tcholakian (Mayr, N.Y.), Shnorig Karakelian and Dori Keshkegian (Ani, Pa.), Kayane Shirozian Barzakian (Artemis, Pa.), Sue Navarian and Alice Bajaksozian (Artsakh, Ohio), Stella Bandazian (Hooys, Va.), Varsenig  Dostourian Cotter (Knar, Mass.), Marie Bazarian (Leola Sassouni, Mass.), Varsen Bedrossian (Satenig, D.C.), Sirvart Telbelian (Shakeh, N.J.), Osanna Kalvonjian (Soseh, Wisc.), Shoghig Manoukian  (Spitak, N.J.), Azaduhe Vartanian (Sybille, Mich.), Shoushan Fermanian (Tsolig, Mich.), Takouhy Artinian (Zabelle, Ill.).

A special presentation of the Agnouni Award was made by Chairwoman Daghlian. The Agnouni Award was presented to Ungeruhi Valentine Berberian as an acknowledgment for her many years of service as representative and coordinator of ARS delegates and activities at the United Nations. Berberian graciously accepted the award and thanked the ARS for providing her the opportunity to serve.

Outgoing Board of Directors members Sevan Kolejian (vice chairperson) and Taline Mkrtschjan (in absentia) were congratulated for their work, and presented with special gifts for their dedicated service to the ARS throughout the past four years.

The program was followed by entertainment by musicians Maral and Megheri Tutunjian, who provided a vocal and flute duet performance of Armenian songs, and the Huyser Musical Ensemble of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral, who performed Armenian patriotic songs.

The 96th ARSEUSA convention was adjourned after the completion of Sunday’s agenda. Participants, guests, and delegates alike offered gratitude to the New Jersey chapters for hosting this convention and expressed sentiments about the weekend. The delegates returned home with a clearer understanding of what the ARS will be working toward in the coming year.

By Alyssa Dermenjian

After the April 2-6 Azerbaijani attacks on the Nagorno-Karabagh Republic (Artsakh/NKR), which resulted in hundreds of lives lost and confirmed reports of Azerbaijani war crimes against both civilians and soldiers, the international community, and in particular the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group, charged with negotiating a lasting peace agreement since 1994, have stepped up efforts to negotiate a settlement.

The ‘Free Artsakh Welcomes You’ sign greets all who visit the independent Republic. The unilateral concessions envisaged in the ‘Madrid Principles’ would fundamentally threaten that freedom, leaving Artsakh citizens vulnerable to renewed Azerbaijani aggression and undermining their right to self-determination.

There has been shuttle diplomacy organized by the OSCE Minsk Group countries—U.S., France and Russia –individually and as a group, with the Armenian and Azerbaijani Presidents meeting Secretary of State Kerry, State Secretary Desir and Foreign Minister Lavrov in Vienna in May, and with Russian President Putin in Saint Petersburg in June.

Various options have been floated, but the main peace plan on the table appears to be the “Madrid Principles,” first presented during a Nov. 29, 2007, OSCE Minsk Group meeting with the Presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan held in that city. The specific details of the plan have largely been kept secret. A purported text surfaced—strategically leaked, perhaps—after Azerbaijan’s April attack.

While we cannot authenticate that document, the broad outlines are now widely known.

The “Madrid Principles” call for the initial unilateral concession of seven regions of sovereign Artsakh land—Kubatli, Jebrail, Zangelan, Agdam, Fizuli, Kelbajar, and large portions of Lachin—five of which comprise the outer perimeter of Artsakh and serve as a direct line of contact between the military forces of the NKR and Azerbaijan. Artsakh would become—as it was during the Soviet era—an island surrounded by Azerbaijan, with a “corridor of agreed width” connecting it to Armenia in the Lachin area. The historically Armenian areas of Shahumyan, portions of Martakert and Martuni, and the village of Artsvashen would remain under Azerbaijani occupation. In return, at some point in the future, Artsakh’s final status would be determined by an unspecified “expression of will.” Along the way, there are promises of the deployment of international peacekeepers and donor conferences to promote economic development.

The plan is fundamentally flawed and reckless.

First, the irrevocable surrender of territories would lead to the lack of core security in Nagorno Karabagh, set the stage for continued conflict and increase the likelihood of regional instability. It would reward Azerbaijan for decades of ceasefire violations and attacks which have cost hundreds of lives. Worse, it would green-light further attacks by President Ilham Aliyev, who repeatedly threatens the military takeover not only of Artsakh but of the Republic of Armenia.

Second, the reference to an “expression of will” raises more questions than it answers. When would such a referendum (if that is what is envisioned) actually take place? With no clear end date, Baku could defer or postpone for many years or decades to come without any consequences or incentive for it to adhere to its word. Who would be asked or allowed to vote? Who would conduct the actual voting process? And finally, what would folks be asked to vote on: Artsakh’s broad autonomy within Azerbaijan? Artsakh’s independence? Would Artsakh’s reunification with Armenia even be an option?

Third, while peacekeepers may be deployed in good faith, their ability and willingness to protect Artsakh civilians is questionable at best. A 2014 United Nations internal study has found that “there is a persistent pattern of peacekeeping operations not intervening with force when civilians are under attack.” Specifically, “of the 507 incidents involving civilians reported in Secretary-General’s reports from 2010 to 2013, only 101, or 20 percent, were reported to have attracted an immediate mission response. Conversely, missions did not report responding to 406 (80 percent) of incidents where civilians were attacked.” Can we entrust the safety of Artsakh’s civilian population to a system that intervenes to stop the violence only 20 percent of the time?

And what about the Artsakh Republic itself? Why are they not at the negotiating table right now, participating in the discussions which would decide their fate? Karabagh was a signatory to the ceasefire back in 1994 and participated in early negotiations. If, in fact, a Karabagh deal is in the works, shouldn’t the Artsakh government be part of the talks?

The head of the NKR Public Council on Foreign Policy and Security said it best, in a 2014 interview with the Institute for War and Peace Reporting (IWPR).

“Armenian diplomats should have long ago rejected any discussion of a document [Madrid Principles] that not only contains many points that run counter to Armenian interests, but also has great destructive potential. It’s time to relieve the international mediators of their false ideas. This would allow them to create new regulatory mechanisms that reflect current realities.”

In other words, scrap the Madrid Principles and start working on a balanced plan which would respect the right to self-determination of the people of Artsakh and offer meaningful guarantees for their safety and security.

And now is a good time to start.

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has launched an action campaign to U.S. legislators outlining the dangers of the “Madrid Principles.” To take action, visit anca.org/Madrid.
Alyssa Dermenjian (California State University Northridge, Class of 2018) is a 2016 ANCA Leo Sarkisian Intern.

The AYF Western United States Central Executive issued an announcement on Aug. 2, proclaiming the organization’s solidarity with Armenia’s youth.

GLENDALE, Calif.—In the aftermath of the crisis that embroiled not only in Armenia but the entire Armenian Nation for the past two weeks, the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) Western United States Central Executive issued an announcement on Aug. 2, proclaiming the organization’s solidarity with Armenia’s youth who have forsaken all else to create a bright and just future for the Armenian homeland.

Below is the announcement in its entirety.

***

The past two weeks have been challenging for Armenians across the globe, as we watched events unfold in Erebuni. Armed men stormed a police station, occupying it during a standoff with authorities. The crisis became a catalyst for demonstrations against the government. In the end, two police officers lost their lives, and dozens of civilians were injured. Many unanswered questions remain, including where we go from here.

As a diasporan community, we continually remind ourselves to be educated and engaged in all events taking place in Armenia. However, our engagement with the Armenian nation and homeland is not an ephemeral process that flares or dissipates with any given protest. Nation building is a perpetual and often frustrating process, one that is absolutely dependent on a democratic and solution-oriented approach.

The state is tasked with the essential duty of protecting the wellbeing of its citizenry; a sacred function that cannot be abused. Unanswered grievances and repressive responses have heightened feelings of desperation amongst citizens. This dangerous and untenable situation must be addressed.

From the government of Armenia we demand accountability and transparency in investigating all abuses of power during the past two weeks, and steps be taken to ensure due process is afforded to all detained individuals. In addition to respecting the Armenian people’s right to free speech and assembly, we demand the absolute protection of the press to objectively report developments without any fear of reprisal.

To our sisters and brothers in Armenia, we appeal to you to never give up the tools of nonviolent organizing as the only means of bringing about the social change we struggle for. We must realize the indomitable strength and political capital of an organized populace that is not contingent upon the use of violence.

The movement for a better Armenia can never be frustrated, nor can it recognize any borders. It is a movement that will only be successful with the participation of all segments of our society, through discussion, debate, and protest—held accountable by the vote.

The fate of our Republic does not belong to the corrupt, nor does it belong to the cynical. It belongs to the idealistic, principled, tireless, forward-thinking women and men from Yerevan to Stepanakert, to Los Angeles and the rest of the diaspora that will work together to build the future our nation deserves.

In Common Cause,

Central Executive
Armenian Youth Federation–Western U.S.

Third Annual Conference to Spotlight Efforts to Preserve Christianity in the Middle East; Advocate Passage of Armenian Genocide Truth + Justice Resolution (H.Res.154)

WASHINGTON—The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) will serve as a major sponsor of the In Defense of Christians (IDC) National Advocacy Convention, to be held Sept. 7-9, in Washington, DC. Hundreds of prominent Christians and diverse faith leaders will join human rights advocates from across the United States to urge elected officials to take concrete action to preserve Christianity in the Middle East.

The ANCA is co-sponsoring the third annual In Defense of Christians National Advocacy Convention, which will take place Sept. 7 to 9, in Washington, DC.

“The ANCA is proud to be a sponsor of the In Defense of Christians National Advocacy Convention,” remarked ANCA Government Affairs Director Raffi Karakashian. “We look forward to joining convention participants from all faiths in highlighting for Members of Congress and the Executive Branch the plight of Christians and other vulnerable minorities in the Middle East. The ANCA is pleased that the National Advocacy Convention will highlight—as a major policy goal—congressional consideration and passage of the Armenian Genocide resolution,” added Karakashian.

The Armenian Genocide Truth + Justice Resolution (H.Res.154)—which is now pending before Congress—calls on the President of the United States to work toward equitable, constructive, stable, and durable Armenian-Turkish relations based upon the Republic of Turkey’s full acknowledgment of the facts and ongoing consequences of the Armenian Genocide, and a fair, just, and comprehensive international resolution of this crime against humanity. The ANCA is strongly in support of congressional passage of H.Res.154.

The ANCA has worked closely with IDC and a coalition of more than 100 organizations, including the Knights of Columbus, the International Religious Freedom Round-table and the Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church in a grassroots campaign to have Congress and the Obama Administration declare the slaughter that Christians and other minorities in the Middle East are facing a modern-day genocide.

Earlier this year, on March 15, with a vote of 393 to 0, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously condemned as genocide the ongoing ISIL/Da’esh crimes against Christians – including Armenians and Assyrians—as well as Yezidis and other religious minorities in the Middle East by adopting H.Con.Res.75, spearheaded by Representatives Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.,) and Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.). Two days later, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry clearly and unequivocally characterized the ongoing ISIL/Da’esh attacks and killings of the Christians, Yezidis, and Shiite Muslims in the Middle East as genocide, with specific mention of the destruction of Armenian churches as part of the cultural destruction of these historic communities. The Senate adopted a similar resolution (S.Res.340) in July.

The IDC National Advocacy Convention—titled “Beyond Genocide: Preserving Christianity in the Middle East”—will be held from Sept. 7 through 9, at a variety of venues in Washington, DC. The conference will begin with a press conference at the National Press Club and continue the first evening with an Ecumenical Prayer Service with religious leaders and people of all walks of faith. The next day (Sept. 8) the convention will feature a National Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, where participants will meet with close to 100 members of Congress to highlight the plight of Christians and other minorities across the Middle East. That evening, a formal dinner will be held at the Capitol Hill Club that will feature addresses from senior federal policymakers. The last day of the conference (Sept. 9) will feature a policy and awareness symposium at the Dirksen Senate Office Building, followed that evening by the premiere of the movie “Our Last Stand”—a documentary on the plight of Christian communities in Syria and Iraq.

Individuals who are interested in attending the In Defense of Christians Conference with ANCA leaders are encouraged to contact ANCA Government Affairs Director Raffi Karakashian at (202) 775-1918 or by email at raffi@anca.org.

His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, joined with Christian leaders from throughout the Middle East at the inaugural IDC conference in 2014, offering a powerful call for unity in the face of the existential threat against historic Middle Eastern Christian communities. A video of His Holiness Aram I’s remarks is available below.

In Defense of Christians is a 501(c3) U.S. non-profit organization whose mission is to ensure the protection and preservation of Christianity and Christian culture in the Middle East. They work to foster global awareness of the on-going plight of Middle Eastern Christians, encourage political advocacy in order to educate national and international policy makers so as to act toward this goal, and promote programs of humanitarian aid in solidarity with suffering Christian communities in the Middle East.